Vallorbe, an enchanting underground world

The river Orbe carved out the spectacular Vallorbe caves and provided the water needed for the iron works, which is described in the Iron and Railway museum. Situated in the heart of the Jura massif, Fort Pré-Giroud was an advanced defence post. The nearby Juraparc presents bears, wolves and bisons in a natural environment.

Grottes, Vallorbe

Fort Pré-Giroud

The Vallorbe caves contain superb limestone landscapes sculpted by the river Orbe. The subtle lighting enhances the concretions and the huge size of the rooms. Visitors end their visit at the Fairy Treasure Trove exhibiting a collection of 250 minerals.

A visit to the Pré-Giroud artillery fort explains its mission: prevent any foreign army from passing Col de Jougne. The barracks and their underground bunkers housed up to 200 soldiers.

In the ironworks opened in 1495 in the centre of Vallorbe, the Iron and Railway Museum recalls the work of the smiths by recounting how the Simplon railway line was built.

A pack of wolves, a family of bears and bisons live in the Mont d'Ozeires Juraparc and can be observed in safe conditions.